Pope Appoints Raffaella Petrini as First Female Leader of Vatican City Government

In a historic move, Pope Francis has appointed Sister Raffaella Petrini as the first woman to lead the government of Vatican City. This significant decision aligns with the Pope's ongoing efforts to promote the role of women within the Church, despite his continued reluctance to allow female priesthood.

Sister Petrini, who has been serving as the Secretary General of the Governatorate of Vatican City since 2021, will officially take on her new responsibilities as President of the Pontifical Commission for Vatican City State and head of the Governatorate starting March 1. She succeeds Cardinal Vérgez Alzaga, who is retiring at the age of 80.

The appointment marks a pivotal moment in the Vatican's history, as the leadership roles within the governing body have traditionally been reserved for cardinals. Vatican News highlighted that this appointment underscores Pope Francis's commitment to enhancing the participation of women in ecclesiastical leadership.

Born in Rome, Sister Raffaella Petrini holds a doctorate in political science and has studied at the University of Hartford in the United States. Her background and experience have positioned her well for this landmark role, which makes her the highest-ranking official in Vatican City, although the Pope remains the head of both the Vatican City State and the Holy See.

Pope Francis's focus on increasing women's representation in Church leadership is evident in several recent appointments. Earlier this year, he appointed Simona Brambilla as the first female Prefect of a dicastery in the Roman Curia. Additionally, Barbara Jatta has served as the Director of the Vatican Museums since 2017.

In recent statements, Pope Francis affirmed the importance of women's contributions to Church governance, noting their managerial capabilities and the positive impact they have made in the Curia. He expressed confidence in the growing number of women in significant roles within the Vatican.

While these developments are promising, Pope Francis is currently facing health challenges. He was hospitalized due to bronchitis, which has affected his ability to breathe and speak. After being admitted to the Gemelli Hospital in Rome for treatment, doctors reported a lung infection that is being managed with antibiotics and corticosteroids. The Pope's condition has been described as stable, and he is expected to continue his recovery under strict medical supervision.

During his hospitalization, Pope Francis expressed his gratitude to the public for their prayers and to the medical staff for their care. He has refrained from participating in public events, including the Angelus prayer, but continues to engage with matters of state from his hospital bed, reading and reviewing documents.